Vet advice to keep your pet healthy this summer

Laura Sturrock

Summer is a great time for pets and their owners, but vets are warning about the hidden risks to pets during the warmest season of the year.

Heatstroke, pesky parasites and open water can all pose dangers to pets.

To help pet owners, vets have compiled a summer pet guide, full of information and top tips on how to enjoy the summer with a healthy and happy pet.

Dr Huw Stacey, director of clinical services at Vets4Pets, said: “There is a lot that pet owners need to take into consideration throughout the summer months, which is why we’ve produced this summer guide.

“High temperatures can be very dangerous for many pets, as hot weather can make roads and pavements too hot to walk on, particularly for pets’ sensitive paws and pads. So walking dogs at cooler times of the day can help avoid burnt feet.

“Owners must also remember to never leave their pet in a car, conservatory or caravan on a warm day. Even if it feels mild outside, the temperature inside can reach up to 40 degrees in just 30 minutes.

“To help keep smaller pets cool, including rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs, it is always best to move indoor cages out of direct sunlight and outdoor hutches into a shaded part of the garden or even inside the house.

“All pets should also always have a supply of fresh water, whether that is in the garden, on holiday, or in the car. This will decrease their chances of becoming dehydrated or suffering from heatstroke.”

Between January and June last year 55,733 pet passports were issued to pet owners who wanted to take their pets away with them on holiday abroad.

Dr Stacey added: “Before you travel anywhere, abroad or in the UK, you need to pack your pet’s essential documentation, have the local vet’s details for wherever you are staying, check your pet is microchipped and their vaccinations and treatments are up-to-date.

“If you are travelling in a car with your pet, putting them in a crate is usually the safest option, but owners need to make regular stops so their pet can stretch or go to the toilet.